William Penn, Pennsylvania and Quakerism
· Quakers were a protestant sect in Anglican controlled England
· William Penn became a Quaker at age 22 to the chagrin of his father, Sir William Penn
· Penn and other Quakers were arrested for refusing to swear loyalty to England
· William Penn’s father (the late Sir William Penn), was owed money. Instead of money, William Jr. was given a piece of land in the New World “South and West” of New Jersey
· Pennsylvania was founded in 1681 (Buck’s county was one of the first counties in Pennsylvania)


Quaker Beliefs
· Simplistic in speech and clothing
· Pacifistic
· Also known as the “Society of Friends” or “Friends” for short
· Don’t believe in having religious leaders but go by their own “inner light”
· Refuse to take “oaths” or to bow or remove their hats for any other person
· Silent prayer unless feeling led to speak during the religious service
  • Treat the Native Americans fairly

  • Used a meeting house


Quaker Influence on American Government
· Fair trial by jury
· Freedom of Religion
· Freedom from unjust punishment
· Free elections
· Representation by the people